Maintaining good eye health is critical, and understanding the early signs of eye diseases can help safeguard your vision. Residents of Savanna and surrounding areas in Calgary should be especially vigilant about eye health. Here, we discuss several common eye conditions and the early warning signs that everyone should know.
1. Glaucoma: The Silent Thief of Sight
Glaucoma is notorious for its lack of early warning signs, which is why it’s often called the “silent thief of sight.” Over time, increased pressure inside the eye can damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss. Regular eye exams are vital, as they can detect changes in eye pressure and the optic nerve before you notice any symptoms. However, in advanced stages, you might notice:
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Blurred vision
2. Cataracts: Clouding of the Lens
Cataracts develop slowly and cause the lens of your eye to become cloudy, resulting in blurred vision. This condition is most commonly related to aging. Early signs include:
- Faded colors
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Seeing halos around lights
3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD primarily affects the central part of the retina, leading to loss of central vision, which is crucial for activities like reading and driving. Early AMD often doesn’t have symptoms, but as the condition progresses, you might notice:
- Visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing wavy
- Reduced central vision in one or both eyes
- Need for brighter lighting when reading or doing close work
- Increased difficulty adapting to low light levels
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
If you have diabetes, you are at risk for diabetic retinopathy. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to blood vessels in the retina. Early detection is crucial to manage and treat diabetic retinopathy effectively. Early signs can include:
- Spots or dark strings floating in your vision (floaters)
- Blurred vision
- Fluctuating vision
- Dark or empty areas in your vision
- Visual impairment
These eye conditions highlight the importance of regular eye examinations, particularly if you are at higher risk due to factors like age, family history, or underlying health conditions like diabetes. Eye exams not only assess your vision but also the health of your eyes, potentially catching diseases before symptoms appear.
Need Eye Care Services? Call Us Today!
If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms or if it’s time for your regular eye check-up, don’t hesitate to reach out. Protecting your vision is our top priority. Call us at (403) 293-6746 to schedule an appointment with a caring and professional eye care specialist. Your eyesight deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it right here in Savanna and the surrounding Calgary communities.